HabsWorld.net --
Montreal has added a pair of players that are likely heading for Laval, announcing the signings of forward Philippe Maillet and defenceman Brady Keeper to one-year, two-way contracts. Financial terms of the deals were not disclosed.
Maillet last played in North America in 2020-21, making his NHL debut in a pair of games with Washington while having a strong showing with AHL Hershey, notching 21 points in 15 games. All told, he has 159 points in 217 career AHL contests.
The 30-year-old has spent the last two seasons in the KHL with Metallurg Magnitogorsk. Last season, he played in 66 games, notching 22 goals and 31 assists, finishing tied for 13th in league scoring. Maillet is expected to play a significant role offensively in Laval following the departure of Alex Belzile (Rangers) and the likely departure of Anthony Richard (Bruins).
As for Keeper, the 27-year-old spent last season in Vancouver’s farm system after missing all of 2021-22 after breaking both the tibia and fibula in his left leg. He played in 37 games in the minors, picking up a goal and five assists.
Keeper, a 6’2 right-shot defender, has a pair of NHL appearances under his belt. He’s expected to fill the role that Madison Bowey was signed to cover last season, as a reliable defensive player that can kill penalties and play tough minutes defensively.
Both players will need to pass through waivers to get to the Rocket next season but in all likelihood, that shouldn’t be a problem for either one.
Maillet’s Stats:
Keeper’s Stats:
